Covid Classes

Update: We have wonderful news to share. Since Jim recorded this video we have been granted the space to conduct classes in the Grand Ballroom. Since the seating capacity is 250 and we will only have a maximum of 20 students in a class, the social distancing is spacious.

Just as important is the abundant cross-ventilation in the Ballroom, ensuring fresh air for every class.

Also, below are the Coronavirus Security Protocols and Transmission Prevention for The Meisner Technique Studio.

Objective:​ To operate a teaching space as safely as possible during the pandemic, minimizing the risk of transmission during classes. To establish clear, consistent protocols and guidelines so that students consistently use best practices and know what standards of behavior to expect in the classroom environment, for their own safety and the protection of others. 

Procedures for The Meisner Technique Studio​: The primary risk factors are the number of people who must meet indoors (10-20) and the duration of those classes (3 hours). Fortunately, this risk can be greatly reduced by four means: sanitation, masks, physical distancing, and good ventilation. 

1. Sanitation – Good practice has already been established with routine cleaning of surfaces in-between paired exercises in class. A routine to clean frequently touched before and after each session (e.g. door handles, windows, light switches). Is also in place. Additionally, students are required to wash their hands immediately upon arrival to each class. 
2. Masks – Suitable masks covering both nose and masks must be worn for the duration of class. Masks must be in place before entering the building. This conforms with CA and SF mandates for Covid-19 protections. 
3. Distancing – Distancing protocols spacing students at least six feet apart are in place and will be continued. 
4. Ventilation – The Grand Ballroom allows ventilation with fresh outdoor air, which can dramatically improve the safety of meeting inside. At least two windows on opposing sides are be open at all times. Students should be reminded to bring warm clothing and the space should be kept as well ventilated as possible, chill notwithstanding. 

This is a new virus, and there are uncertainties. However, there is overwhelming evidence that all of these measures, when combined, are extremely effective at preventing spread. 

Since re-opening classes in June, The Meisner Technique Studio has not had one single incident of infection or spread of COVID-19.

If the Meisner Technique Studio follows these rules and procedures consistently, it is likely that we could prevent transmission entirely, even if one or more contagious students attend class. 

Modifications:

Modification 1​:​ Jim does not wear a mask while teaching. Jim does sit near a fresh air source, maintaining good distancing from students, and by universal mask usage by all other non-participants. 

He also gets tested once a week to ensure all students’ safety and his as well.

Modification 2​: ​Student pairs have the option to remove masks while working. This option is for the purposes of acting instruction. The increased risk to the Instructor or other students can be reduced by keeping good distance between the “stage” area and the seated “audience”, by keeping windows on either side of the stage area open at all times, and by universal mask usage by all non-participants. 

If you have and questions please reach out to regina@meisnerstudio.com.